Elmiron lawsuits allege that long-term use of this drug causes serious eye damage. You may be able to be compensated for medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering, among other damages. We are working with experienced Elmiron lawyers across the country, who charge no fee to you unless you obtain an award or settlement. For a free (no obligation) case evaluation, call our toll-free number 24/7 at 1-800-992-6878 or fill out an online contact form.
Have You Sustained Injuries After Taking Elmiron?
You May Have a Claim.
What is Elmiron?
Elmiron (pentosan polysulfate sodium) is a medication that is used to treat interstitial cystitis, also known as painful bladder syndrome. The drug can be used to treat osteoarthritis and can also be used as an anticoagulant. However, recent studies have shown patients, who had long-term exposure to this drug, experience adverse side effects to their vision.
What Are The Side Effects of Elmiron
Around 100 cases were reported to the FDA between 1997 and 2019 by patients, who complained of vision issues after taking Elmiron. Of those reported cases, eight (8) were considered serious and 22 of them mentioned forms of maculopathy, which is a disease affecting the central part of the retina. This disease progresses at a gradual pace and greatly impairs the person’s vision, which can even lead to blindness. Other side effects:
- Blurry vision
- Less vivid colors
- Complications adapting to dimmer lights
- Distorted lines (straight lines looked curved)
- Eye Pain
- Seeing dark spots near the center of vision
- Trouble reading
Elmiron Lawsuits
Do You Have a Lawsuit If You Have Taken Elmiron?
Elmiron lawsuits are being filed on behalf of clients, who took the drug over an extended period of time and now have vision loss.
These lawsuits may potentially look at clinical trials conducted by Elmiron’s manufacturers, Janssen Pharmaceuticals. One clinical trial had 2,499 patients who took the drug for years. Some patients reported eye and vision-related issues during this clinical trial. While this information would have been known to the manufacturers, it was not posted on the warning label. Therefore, the public did not have knowledge of this dangerous potential side effect.
Elmiron Timeline
- 2018 – The American Academy of Ophthalmology published an article on how they treated patients for interstitial cystitis using Elmiron between 2015-2017. Six (6) developed pigmentary maculopathy.
- 2019 – The American Academy of Ophthalmology published another article stating the number of patients, who had now developed pigmentary maculopathy increased to ten (10). The article also explained that scientists at Kaiser Permanente saw that 25% of patients using Elmiron showed signs of eye damage.
- 2020 – Researchers at the Emory Eye Center documented cases of retinal injuries to patients who had prolonged exposure to Elmiron.
What if I Stop Taking Elmiron?
According to a case study done by an ophthalmologist, who specializes in retinal degenerations at Harvard Medical School, vision loss may continue to develop even after the patient no longer takes Elmiron. The patient in this case study was a woman, who took the drug for years, while not knowing of the potential harmful side effects on her eyes. After her doctor became aware of Elmiron’s potential dangers, her doctor recommended that she discontinue its use. After she stopped taking the drug years earlier, her vision loss was still deteriorated. This suggests that vision loss may continue to progress even after someone stops taking the drug.
What if I Took Elmiron?
The first thing you should do is see an ophthalmologist regularly to monitor your eyes. Make sure to document any and every adverse change to your eyesight. Knowing if you have a family history of retinal disease can help rule out what is genetic and what is caused by a toxin your body was introduced to. As with any potential personal injury case, seeking an experienced Elmiron lawyer to discuss your options is always recommended.
Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one took Elmiron and now have impaired vision or blindness, you may be able to receive compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering, among other related losses. Our firm works with some of the most knowledgeable Elmiron lawyers in the country, who are ready to talk to you about your potential case. Call us toll-free 24/7 at 1-800-992-6878 or fill out an online contact form for a free (no obligation) case evaluation.
Sources:
- https://www.aaojournal.org/article/S0161-6420(17)33695-3/abstract
- https://www.aboutlawsuits.com/elmiron-vision-loss-case-study-165714/
- https://www.microchirurgiaoculare.com/en/maculopathy/causes-and-symptoms/